Research

Randomized Trial of Parent Training for Young Children with Autism

Although parents are universally acknowledged as mainstays of their children’s Autism treatment team, they often have to fend for themselves when managing their children’s behavior at home. A $5-million, National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), multi-center grant, which includes the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), aims to end that feeling of isolation and bewilderment among parents. The grant, spread across five sites over five years, will study the effectiveness of a structured parent training program compared to an intensive, psycho educational program for 180 preschool-age children with Autism.

Who is Eligible to Participate?

Parents of children between 3 and 6 years old (up to their 7th birthday) with a diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder who also have irritable behaviors. Other criteria may apply.

How Does the Study Work?

The first two sessions involve observing the child and asking questions of the parent to determine eligibility

Eligible participants are randomized (like flipping a coin) to either Parent Management Training or Psycho-educational Program (each consisting of 11-12 individual weekly sessions with a trained clinician)

Sessions are conducted at study clinic in the Towne House across from Strong Hospital parking garage

Some intervention sessions and visits will be videotaped. Participants will be reimbursed for screening, assessment and intervention visits.